'the leftovers' S2 BD: Go West Middle-Aged Remnants

The following thoughts on the Warner Prime Blu-ray release of the second season of the HBO series "the leftovers" is the last in this series of reviews on this program before a post on the Warner Archive BD release of the third and final season of this show. As the review of the Prime S1 BD release explains, "leftovers" is based on the novel of the same name by series co-producer Tom Perrotta about the trauma and drama in the lives of those of us who are not among the masses who mysteriously vanish en masse on October 14, 2011.

The following YouTube clip of the trailer for "Leftovers" S2 achieves its goal of providing a taste of the drama and the spirit of the season.

Co-producer Damon Lindelof clearly demonstrates his "Lost" experience right from the opening S2 moments by inexplicably shifting the action from suburban Mapleton, New York to more rural Miracle (nee Jarden), Texas. We soon learn that this Lone Star State community being completely spared the central rapture makes it a Mecca for folks seeking a Utopia.

The pilgrims include former Mapleton sheriff Kevin Garvey (Justin Theroux), his "steady" Nora Durst, and his teen daughter Jill. The second episode of this season establishes the high price that this family pays for a fresh start.

The early episodes further establish that Kevin cannot escape his demons. The past literally haunts him, and he gets wrapped up in a central mystery involving the unexplained drying up of a lake coinciding with the disappearance of teen neighbor Evie Murphy and two friends of Evie. We further learn during the season that there is evidence that people continue to go poof every so often.

The aforementioned haunting and other stress prompts Kevin to seek relief in the form of an alternative medical treatment. This triggers "Lost" centric events that lead to the dramatic series finale.

The "Lost" vibe is equally strong regarding fully breaking up the band and splitting much of the action into separate venues. The familial split of the Garveys at the end of S1 continues with psychologist/ex-wife/former Guilty Remnant cult member Laurie (Amy Brenneman) staying behind with early 20s son Tom to counsel other "fallen" members of Remnant. Laurie additionally is the author of a book about her Remnant experience.

Reverend Matt Jamison (Christopher Eccleston of "Doctor Who") also is in Texas; his motives for the move include hoping to improve the health of paralyzed wife Mary. The faith (and the principles) of Matt is severely tested when he is the victim of a brutal attack that threatens the ability of him and Mary to continue enjoying the refuge that Miracle offers.

In equally true "Lost" style, S2 ends with every main character in Miracle and having a role in the typical shocking turn of events that result in the season-ending cliffhanger.

The appeal of "Leftovers" extends beyond the strong cast and acting. On a large level, the series centers around the prophesied ascension of the righteous. On a more specific level, the show reflects current dystopia in which we either wait for the news of the latest disaster or deal with the consequences of a prior one.

Anyone with questions or comments regarding "Leftovers" is strongly encouraged to email me. You alternatively can connect on Twitter via @tvdvdguy.